Psalms 119:33

Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הוֹרֵ֣נִי

H3384

HE Teach

properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

me O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

דֶּ֥רֶךְ

H1870

the way

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

חֻקֶּ֗יךָ

H2706

of thy statutes

an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)

וְאֶצְּרֶ֥נָּה

H5341

and I shall keep

to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)

עֵֽקֶב׃

H6118

it unto the end

a heel, i.e., (figuratively) the last of anything (used adverbially, for ever); also result, i.e., compensation; and so (adverb with preposition or re

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 119 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?